Getting Started

Coming to university is a BIG change. You're suddenly dumped in the middle of a whirlwind of various bit of paperwork, new surroundings and new faces. Although Roehampton is really a tiny university, it can seem huge until you've figured out your way around.

One of the most important events of Freshers' Week is the Activities Fair. This is a whole day event where all the societies and sports set up stalls on Froebel Lawn and encourage new freshers to sign up.

Keep an eye out for the rowing stall- we're easy to spot in our lycra unisuits!

Once you've signed up for rowing, you'll be added to a mailing list, and to our facebook group where the captains will regularly post. Make sure you keep checking back for more information!

Things you'll need to row:

-Wellies- there are wellies available to borrow at the boathouse but they're normally wet and cold. I would suggest investing in a pair from Primark, and a pair of thick socks!

-Close fitting clothes- The handles of the oars can get caught in loose clothing, so you'll need a close fitting jumper (not a hoodie- the pocket catches the oars too) and leggings. 

The first few sessions you have will be in the 'tank'. This is a large pool of water with a concrete platform in it. Here you will be taught the basics of rowing before we let you loose on the river. The tank is designed to teach you how to row 'sweep'. Sweep rowing means there is one oar per person and we normally row like this throughout the winter. 'Sculling' is when you have two oars each and we mainly scull during the summer.

After a few sessions in the tank, you'll be allowed in a boat for the first time! Exciting stuff. Remember to pay attention to your 'cox', the person who steers the boat and shouts instructions to you. The coach will also be alongside in a 'launch', a small light motorboat. 

Roehampton University Rowing Club (R.U.R.C) is very casual, and 99.9% of people join as total beginners. We enter competitions throughout the year, but you can choose whether to buy a social or competitive membership if you don't want to race. We have a social at least twice a term, and usually everyone ends up living, working or drinking together on a regular basis!

Check out my blog post on the Roehampton website for my first impressions of the rowing team.

Maddie Lukes